Mathieu Garon is very flexible. Photo by Linda Hamilton

The Tampa Bay Lightning had a number of troubles in during the 2011-12 season. One of the most glaring was the shortcomings of the goaltending position. Dwayne Roloson fell short of the lofty expectations after his torrid second half run and playoff performance. Backup Mathieu Garon was forced into the starting role.

Garon’s efforts in the crease helped the Lightning push towards a playoff spot in the second half of the season. That momentum sputtered when he suffered a torn groin muscle on March 6th and missed the rest of the season.

Mathieu now believes he is completely recovered. Part of his rehabilitation work has been to strengthen the muscle. He suffered a similar injury several years ago and has used that experience in his recovery. He’s been skating and believes he is ready to go on a new campaign.

Fast forward six months and the Bolts have changed too. Anders Lindback was brought in from the Nashville Predators. A young goalie who has been earmarked as having number 1 potential sharing time with a crafty veteran? If it works, Tampa’s goaltending could be one of its most improved components if there’s a season this fall.

“Right now everything is looking good. With the new additions, I feel like we’re all ready to prove that last year was just a fluke. It’s good to see also that everyone is coming back health,” Garon said. (Quote Source: Official Lightning Site)

And now, your moment of zen. Mathieu Garon doing some insane stretches when he was a member of the
Edmonton Oilers.